The Dexter Historical Society was chartered in 2000. The museum resides in the former First Universalist Church of Dexter, which was active from 1841-1997 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. We collect and preserve artifacts, pictures, and history of Dexter and surrounding areas, and we make this historical information available to the public.
An Eagle Scout project in 2019 renovated the museum displays, and since then the museum has been open to the public for summer hours and special events.
The Last Station, a joint venture with the Dexter Volunteer Fire Department, opened in 2024 and houses historical firefighting equipment and memorabilia, including the 1929 Brockway Fire Engine and the 1865 Rumsey hand pumper.
Join us at the Dexter Legion, right near the museum, for our summer concerts. Come listen to Ham Jam, a popular local band-- free admission! Cakes and ice cream are available for purchase. Don't miss it!
Dates are June 23rd, July 21st, and August 18th from 6-8:30PM
Back again this year is our Meet the Pumpers Day! Sunday, August 2nd, from 1-4PM. Come see the 1929 Brockway fire engine and the 1865 Rumsey Hand Pumper up close, and talk to the firemen! You may even get a chance to try working the Rumsey hand pumper yourself and experience what firefighters had to work with in the old days! Free admission! You can tour both buildings, and we will have hot dogs, popcorn, and soda available. This is a great family event too!
We are open June, July and August
on Saturday and Sunday
from 12-2PM
Free admission
New exhibits for 2026, including recently unearthed artifacts. Come tour both museums!

Our museum has many historical photos lining the walls showing Dexter events and people. There are also many display cases in the museum showcasing objects from Dexter's history.

Come take a look at The Last Station, a joint venture with the Dexter Volunteer Fire Department to display historical fire equipment and memorabilia. We have the 1929 Brockway Fire Engine, as well as the 1865 Rumsey Hand Pumper (both pictured here). The Brockway is often used in parades, and visitors can try out the hand pumper at special events.

Our museum is housed in the former First Universalist Church of Dexter, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. We have many items on display from the church and its congregation, in addition to the extensive photos and artifacts that chronical Dexter's history.

Dexter Fire Department Silsby Steamer 1895
Come see the history of our fire department at The Last Station!

You can still see this hotel at the corner of Route 180 and 12E. Although closed now, this hotel was the longest continuously operating hotel in Jefferson County. It was a way station on the Watertown/Cape Vincent Road

Built in 1852 by James Bell, it was a mercantile business. The Wood brothers purchased it in 1870 and continued the operation for many years




Help us preserve and share our local history. Your donation ensures ongoing programs, exhibits, and educational outreach for the community. Every contribution makes a difference in keeping our heritage alive for future generations. You can mail donations to the address below, or click the donation button to email us.
We are open June, July and August
on Saturday and Sunday
from 12-2PM
Contact us if you would like to visit a different time
Free Admission
(PO Box 231) 105 E Kirby St, Dexter, NY, 13634 USA